Data Science NPA (Level 6)

Course overview

This course is specifically for S5 and S6 learners attending School.

The field of Data Science combines digital and data skills, specific knowledge about a particular topic or subject area, and numeracy skills to extract insights and knowledge from data. The ability to identify the problem to solve, the correct data to use, carry out the analysis and then implement the outcome requires the three areas mentioned above to be brought together.

Data Science is becoming essential to how we live, learn and work. It is all about how we turn those insights extracted from data into actions. Many people are keen to learn more and understand this topic, and more employers are seeking applicants with experience in Data Science. Using the knowledge and skills from this course will help you to develop in your current or future job role.
The course has an 18-week structure and is guided by lecturer support via in-person or online learning. On successful completion of this course, you will gain a National Progression Award in Data Science at SCQF level 6.

What you will learn

Data Science is a multidisciplinary subject that combines, computer science, statistics and business knowledge. It allows the generation of insights from data.
This course will cover:

• Data Management: Sorting and Analysing Data
• An Introduction to Python Programming
• Learn how to use industry-standard software such as Microsoft Excel.
• Data in our Society: Elements of Data Security and How to Protect Your Own Data and Data Belonging to Other People
• The Potential of Data Usage and Ethical Implications

How the course is assessed

This is a hybrid course where each group will have their own lecturer and the assessments will be released to students as each outcome of the course is delivered, assessments are in the form of coursework, project-based assignments and reports.

Number of days per week

• 2 afternoons per week - Tuesday and Thursday 1:30 pm – 3.30 pm

Entry requirements

• You don't need to have a qualification in a computer science-related award but a small amount of knowledge in Microsoft Excel or Google sheets or 3 relevant National 5s at C or above (including Maths or Numeracy) is advantageous
• You must complete a personal statement in support of your application
   

English Proficiency Requirements

Progression and Articulation Routes

Depending on your other skills and qualification, there could be an entry into:

• NPA Software Development and Web/Digital Design
• NPA Cyber Security and Networking
• PDA Data Science
   

Career options

• For those starting their career, this is a gateway qualification to study at a higher level at college.
• This qualification provides a great addition to your CV.
• Data science jobs can include data analyst, systems analyst, data scientist, and software engineer.
• Data science is highly utilised in medicine, marketing, science, finance, business, retail, agriculture and technology.